State Disaster Management Authority to make people aware about safer construction
During the review meeting of the District Disaster Management Authority, the Additional District Magistrate emphasized that officials will be tasked with providing information about safe building construction at village meetings scheduled for October 2. Additionally, pamphlets and other promotional materials published by the SDMA will be distributed to the public. He mentioned that the cooperation of art groups and local panchayat representatives will be sought to raise awareness among the people. Contractors, mechanics, and other workers involved in building construction will also be educated on various aspects of safe building practices.
He stressed the importance of training through video conferences to ensure the use of school safety mobile apps in all schools and to promptly train disaster response volunteers. A competition for constructing safe buildings will be held for high schools, senior secondary schools, and colleges in the district, with the district-level competition concluding by September 25. The winning school will have the opportunity to compete at the state level.
International Disaster Reduction Day will be observed on October 13 in Kullu district. During this time, awareness programs will be organized to keep all citizens informed and vigilant about disaster management. Programs on disaster management will be conducted in schools, and messages promoting safe building construction will be conveyed to all panchayats, including panchayat heads, ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, panchayat-level government officers, trained masons, and volunteer organizations.
He highlighted that preparations are crucial to prevent disasters and minimize damage. Awareness campaigns have already started at the school and panchayat levels. The ADM noted that constructing safe buildings is vital to avoid disasters, and panchayat-level masons are being trained for earthquake-resistant construction in Kangra district.
The Additional District Magistrate pointed out that Kangra district is highly sensitive to earthquakes, and special emphasis is being placed on safe building construction. He underscored the importance of public participation in effective disaster management. The District Disaster Management Authority has prepared an action plan.
The meeting was attended by officials from the Public Works Department, Rural Development Department, DDMA, and other related departments.
